At just 23, Galiwango Kenneth is carving a path in Uganda’s fast-evolving media landscape with a vision to deliver authentic, youth-centered news and entertainment.
Born on July 15, 2002, in Kampala, Kenneth grew up fascinated by the power of stories to connect communities. Although he never pursued formal training in journalism or technology, he nurtured his passion through self-taught digital skills—an effort that would later propel him into media entrepreneurship.
From Barber Shop to Media Start-Up
Kenneth’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2019 when he opened Santa Barber Shop in Mpererwe. The venture sharpened his ability to connect with people and inspired his dream of creating a media platform. By February 2025, he had turned that vision into reality, launching a digital initiative to deliver breaking news, politics, celebrity gossip, and lifestyle stories.
The name of his platform—drawing from the generosity and joy associated with “Santa”—symbolizes a commitment to providing fresh, trustworthy content as a gift to his audience.
Overcoming Challenges
Building an independent media brand has not been without obstacles. Kenneth has grappled with limited funding, stiff competition, and the struggle of building a reliable team. Long hours and creative problem-solving, however, have helped him establish a consistent pipeline of content and grow a loyal following.
Redefining News Delivery
Unlike traditional outlets, Kenneth leans heavily on platforms like TikTok to deliver fast, bite-sized stories. His website, designed with SEO and modern user experience in mind, ensures accessibility and reach. Analytics play a key role, allowing him to tailor stories to reader preferences.
This innovative approach, he says, is shaping the future of interactive news in Uganda.
Engaging a Young Audience
Kenneth’s platform primarily targets Ugandans aged 18 to 45—a demographic hungry for fresh, unbiased updates. While readers praise the fast-paced coverage, some have asked for more detailed feature stories. Kenneth is already adjusting his strategy to balance quick updates with in-depth reporting.
The Role of Independence
The young entrepreneur argues that independent media offers diverse voices free from political and corporate influence. “Independent platforms help keep communities informed and engaged in a polarized world,” he notes.
Advice to Young Dreamers
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Kenneth advises: start small, focus on a niche, master digital tools like SEO and analytics, and above all, stay authentic. His own journey, he says, is proof that persistence pays off.
Looking Ahead
With an eye on the next three to five years, Kenneth plans to expand his platform into one of East Africa’s leading digital media brands. He envisions more multimedia features, strategic partnerships, and a stronger presence across the region—while staying true to his mission of delivering impactful, unbiased content.
